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il NO. 423. 



^The Strike.4* 



DRAMA. 



WITH CAST < )P CHA RA< TERS, ENTRAN* 
- RELATIVE I 'OS IT i' 
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Book_ 



The Strike; 



-OR- 



Under the Shadow of 



a Crime. 

A DRAMA. 

IN FIVE ACTS. 

— BY— 

William Ward Buss. 



85970 



L.ibnary of Congress 

Two Copies Received , 
DEC 8 1900 I 

SECOND COPY 

Delivered to 

ORDER DIVISION 

DEC 18 1900 



TO WHICH IS ADDED 

A DESCRIPTION OF THE COSTUMES— CAST OF THE CHARAC- 
TERS— ENTRANCES AND EXITS— RELATIVE POSITIONS 
OF THE PERFORMERS ON THE STAGE, AND THE 
WHOLE OF THE STAGE BUSINESS. 



Entered according to act of Congress in the year 1900 by 

AMES" PUBLISHING CO., 
in the office of the Librarian of Congress at Washington. 



AMES' PUBLISHING CO. 

CLYDE, OHIO:- ' 



CAST OF CHARACTERS. 



THE STRTKE. 



?' 



V^ 



Robert Belknap, Foreman, in the shops. 

Col. Dodson, Proprietor of Dodson 's shops, 

Louis Stevenson, A villain. 

Alex. Stevenson, Oversee?' in the shops. 

Fred Harding, A clerk. 

Brakes, A dissolute character. 

Ruffian, An accomplice of Drakes. 

Officer and Workman. 

Ariel Dodson, Col. Dodson s daughter. 

Carrie Belknap, Robert's sister. 

Bettie, Well meaning, but unfortunate. 

Kate, A maid. 



TIME OF PERFORMANCE— 1 hour and 50 minutes. 

COSTUMES. 

Belknap. — Act 2nd. Working suit, colored suit, changes for bet- 
ter suit in last part of act and rest of play. Cap or soft hat at first, 
hat afterwards. 

Louis Stevenson. — Act 1st. Stylish summer suit, hat in keeping. 
Act 4th. Gloves and cane, may change suit — fashionably dressed, 
black mustache. 

Col. Dodson. — Well dressed, suit and hat suitable for old gentle- 
man. Act 4th. Appears in dressing gown at last part; gray wig and 
side whiskers. 

Stevenson. — Good business suit, soft hat, mustache. 

Fred. — Business suit, derby hat. 

Drakes. — Old clothes, hat iu keepijig. 

Ruffian. — Old clothes, hat in keeping, black beard. 

Officer. — Plain dark suit. 

Workman. — Working suit. 

Ariel. — Act 1st. Morning or street dress, with hat to match. 
Act 3rd. Dark dress, or black, with vail or head covering. Act 4th. 
Light summer dress. Act 5th. Dark dress, hat to match. 

Carrie. — Act 2nd. Plain house dress. In other acts, black or 
dark dress, with plain hat or head covering. 

Bettie. — Act 1st. Dress torn, rather dowdy looking. Acts 3rd. 
and 5th. Better dress. 

Kate. — Act 3rd. Dark or black dress; plain hat or head covering. 
Act 4th. White apron, dress suitable for maid. 

PROPERTIES. 

Act I. — Certificate for Lewis. Letter for Ariel. Letters and 
writing material on the desks. 

Act II. — Letter for Stevenson. Sewing for Carrie. 

Act 111. — Pistol and money for Lewis. Kni fe and bottle for Drakes, 
Knife for Ruffian. Bomb aud matches for Stevenson. 

Act IV. — Letter for Colonel. 

Act Y — Handcuffs, writs and pistol for Officer. Pistol for Lewis. 



THE STBTKB. 3 

SYNOPSIS OF EVENTS. 

ACT T.— Office of Col. Dodson— The false certificate— "I know no 
friendship which interferes with my ambition" — Scheming for a 
fortune— "You are an old fool"— "Once he is out of the way, all is 
clear" — Father and son talk over an old crime — "He may yet be able 
to clear his father's name" — Chip of the old block — Louis forces his 
father to accept his terms — Drakes and Louis — "I'll touch him for 
a dime" — An old sweetheart — The secret is known — Certificate 417 
— "I knew he was innocent, the other is a forgery." 

ACT II. — Robert Belknap's home — Shops shut down — Discharged 
— "My father's name shall be cleared" — "He has made me a social 
outcast" — The strike — "I must meet with the men" — "The Col. 
shall hear of this" — "I cannot be your wife while under the shadow 
of a crime" — "Fred will stand in my place, if not a brother, as a 
husband." 

ACT Iir. — The park by night — "This strike suits my purpose" — 
The conspiracy — "See that he is drugged" — Louis and Drake plan 
murder of Bettie — The meeting — "I scorn and despise you" — "Help!" 
— Kidnapped — The lover's meeting place — The engagement broken 
— The bomb — "May the holy saints protect me" — Louis accidentally 
shoots his father — "I must conceal my part in this affair" — Robert 
accused of murder. 

ACT IV. — Col. Dodson 's grounds— Father' and daughter — The 
letter — The strike is ended — Carrie informs Ariel that Louis Steven- 
son is Robert's enemy — "[ have been deceived, my promise has been 
wrung from me through false representations" — The Col. overhears 
Carrie and Ariel — "Begone, these are my grounds" — "You would 
strike a woman." 

ACT V. — The prison — This is for the faithful descharge of my 
duty — Brother and sister — Meeting of Robert and Ariel — "They 
made me believe you guilt} 7 — "Spare your daughter" — "Father, this 
is the first time I have disobeyed you" — "I have already chosen, 
once more i say, go!"— The arrest of Louis — The witness— -Charged 
■with murder — "Faith, and wasn't Oi an eye witness to the shoot- 
ing Y" — 1 have played my last card and lost — Robert cleared — A 
happy ending. 

S TA GE DTR EGTIONS. 

R., means Right: t... Left; «. h., Right Hand ; 17. h.. Left Hand, 
c, Center: s. k., (2ilis.) Second Entrance; u. e., Upper Entrance; 
m. d., Middle Door: f., the Flat; d. p., Door in Flat; k. c, Right 
of Center; l. c, Left of Center. 

R. K. C. C. L. C. L. 

*** The reader is supposed to be upon the stage facing the audience. 



THE STEIKE. 

-OR- 
Un&er the Shabow of a Crime. 



ACT I. 

SCENE. — Office, at Dodson's shop — bucket of water and tin cup at rear, 
office desk at it., 7iighde.sk at r,., with stool, chairs, door, c. — Louis 
Stevenson seated at a desk, writing — rises with a paper in his hand. 

Louis, (solus) I pride myself upon being a s\ ill fill penman. I 
have imitated Robert Belknap's hand writing to a nicety. If I file 
this certificate in the place from where I took the original certificate, 
no one will ever discover that it is a forgery, {goes over to the other 
desk and places the certificate in a pigeon hole) People talk of friendship 
and honor! I know no friendship which interferes with my ambition 
— no honor which stands in the way of my success. If a man crosses 
my path, I will down him — by foul means, if fair means don't suc- 
ceed. Life is a struggle for existence, and to my notion, whatever 
means he employs, the fellow who comes out on top, wins. That 
Robert Belknap is my- rival, is his misfortune, not mine. 

Enter Alex Stevenson, c. e., unobserved. 

Stevenson, (aside) I wonder what is up now! 

Louis, (continuing) I marry Col. Dodson's daughter! When the 
Colonel steps out, I am in possession of half a million dollars — or my 
wife is, which is one and the same thing. 

Step. You marry the Colonel's daughter? 

Louis, {turning) Yes, that was what I said. 

Ster. It is easily said. 1 will at least give you credit for having 
high ideas. 

Louis. What is to hinder my marrying her? Is she any better 
than I am? Her father began life as a poor mechanic— was a shop- 
man ! 

Stev. That may be, but beware, you are on dangerous ground. 
You seek to gain by stroke of policy that which you should win by 
honest worth. (pits in chair 



TEE STRIKE. S 

Louis, {leaning against desk) You are an old fool. 

Stev. And you the most disrespectful and ungrateful of sons. 

Louis. Come, come, old man, this will not do. You know how 
matters are. James Belknap was arrested for robbing the company. 
The money was taken from the safe, and as he was the only person 
who had access to the safe, suspicion naturally fell upon him. That 
he did not take the money, you know. Well, the old man is dead 
now, but he has a son, a proud fellow. Did it ever occur to you that 
that son would never rest easy until he had discovered and brought 
the guilty party to punishment? But if suspicion can be made to 
fall upon him, as being implicated in the theft, or some crime 
fastened onto him — and this can be done — then we are safe. More 
than this, Robert Belknap is a suitor for the hand of Ariel Dodson. 
Once he is out of the way, and all is clear for me. 

Stev. (aside) Ah! I see. When first I had knowledge of this 
crime, better were it that I had let the guilty party be brought to 
justice, even -though he were my own son, than that the innocent 
should be made to suffer, and 1 haunted by this awful fear, (aloud) 
And why must I be dragged into this business? Only last night I 
thought I saw the old man as he appeared when brought into the 
court room, and people pointed him out as the thief, and when he 
turned reproachfully toward me, I felt that I was accused, and I 
could not restrain myself from crying out. 

Louis. Well, it was a dream. You are not well. There is noth- 
ing to fear from dead men, and now we are in for it. we must see the 
business through. While Robert Belknap is outside of prison walls, 
he may yet be able to prove his father's innocence. I'll have him 
meet disgrace so deep that he'll never live it down, and truth from 
his lips will be deemed a falsehood. 

Stev. And so a new crime musfc^e added to an already black 
record. But go on. 

Louis. Robert Belknap shall never marry Ariel Dodson. 

Stem, So you have said before. A fine son-in-law you will make! 
A profligate — a spendthrift — you who stole the Colonel's money, and 
now would marry his daughter! 

Louis. I am none the worse from having seen something of life. 
I have spent a little money, it is true, but if I marry the Colonels, 
daughter, 1 retrieve all. 

Stev. You have the making of a gentleman, had you the honor of 
a man. 

Louis. I asked you to meet me before office hours to talk over 
some matters of business. There was an engine returned to the 
shops yesterday — badly constructed — didn't work — something was 
wrong with it. 

Stev. Yes, but that is nothing to you. I am fortunate if \ do not 
lose my place for letting that engine go out of the shops imperfect. 

Louis. Justso! I am fully aware that you are! The Colonel re- 
turns to-day. Are you going to confess to carelessness? 

Stev. (rising) I know not what I shall do. 

Louis:. I will tell you. Shift the blame off your own shoulders, 
onto Belknap. He holds the position next below von. He is 
ambitious. He is working for your place. Now is your time. 

Stev. It is not an easy thing to do. I let that engine go out of the 
shops imperfect. 

Louis. Leave the matter in my hands, and I m\\ ir"ange every- 



6 THE STRIKE.' V # 

tiling-. 

Stev. I do not like to bring- false charges against any man 

Louis. But in this case it becomes a necessity. 

Stev. No, no, I will not! It is a damnable business, (.starts to go 

Louis. Hold on, old man".' I'm but a chip off the old block. I 
have received an education — been brought up to be a gentleman. I 
must maintain my position. It takes money. The prison stares 
you and 1 in the face. 

Stev. That disgrace would kill me. 

Louis. You agree to this plan of mine? 

Stev. I agree. What other course is left me? 

Louis. Remember, we are playing for big stakes. Tf we win, 
everything is ours. If we loose — the devil will be i<> pay. 

Stev. .(aside, going to'c.-'B.) Cursed folly -worse than folly, that 
I should ever have thought to make a gentleman of a son of mine. 
Better far that he'd been the poorest mechanic in the shops, and 
honored, than the spendthrift that he is. (exit c. E. 

Louis, (solus) He was too far in the mire himself to have washed 
his hands of it. An old man's repentance comes late. But now as 
to the Colonel! 1 have coddled him with soft words, ticketed his 
vanity, acceded to his whims, concured with him in, all his opinions 
and eccen trices. Ha, ha, ha! The old fool! And now I make love 
to his daughter, and all for his money. 

Enter Drakes, c. b. , looking around. '•■••- Z 

Drakes, (aside) I'll touch him for a dime. 

Louis, (looking up) Hello, Drakes! How are you this morning? 
Anything new? 

Brakes. Yer haven't got any thin' to drink, have ye? 

Louis. Nothing but aqua pftra, microbe, bacteria, bipeds, quad- 
rupeds, centipede, and everything else indigenous to the stuff thrown 
in. Help yourself — there's the bucket. (points to bucket 

Drakes, (dipping into the bucket) Aye. an' thank ye! (aside) An' 
begorra, it's nothing but water after all! (aloud) Faith, an' would 
ye ask a gintleman loike meself to drink water? 

Louis. Ha, ha! I didn't know that you knew the stuff when you 
saw it. 

Drakes. An' wasn't Oi nearly drowned in it when Oi fell into the 
river? 

Louis. Well, it's my treat. But, you are not at work to-day? 

Drakes. No, fur didn't Oi get a lay off yesterday. An' says Oi, 
it's a lay off or another cut in wages, and sure wasn't it. 

Louis. How do the men take it? 

Drakes. An' they don't take it at all, niver at all, an' they'll be 
fur goin' on a strike, they will. 

Louis. 1 don't blame them if they do strike. If it was my say, 
the men would receive good wages. 

Drakes. That's you, me boy! 

Louis, (confidentially) Suppose we go over to the saloon on the 
corner. 

Drakes. Oi'm with ye. Ah Louis, me boy! (goes to L. e.) Oi 
niver refuse to drink with a gintleman. 

Ljouis. (aside) I must stand in with the men. „- - - — 

Drakes. An' begorra, ain't you coming? 



THE STRIKE. 7 

Louis, (aside) He is my man for" anything T want. 

{exit Dkakiss and Louis, l. e.. 

Enter Bettie, c. e., cautiously. 

<m 
Bettie. (solus) I wonder if it is not lime for Louis Stevenson. 
'Tis mo! likely, though, he'll be glad to see me. I use to be Louis' 
sweetheart, but now In- never speaks to me. Guess he does not 
'know that 1 know he stole that money from the company. It slip- 
ped from his tongue accidental like. Ha, ha. ha! As if I am not as 
gpob! as he is any day. 1 shouldn't be surprised if he expects to 
marry Miss Dodsoii, 'but he won't, not if I can help it. [listens) That 
sounds like him coming now. 

Eater Louis, c. e. 

Louis. A good stroke of business done this morning, and before 
office hours, (sees Bettie) Hello! what do you want? 

Bettie. Good morning! 

Louis. Well! 

Bettie. You appear surprised at seeing me. 

Louis, (aside) No escaping her. (aloud) What brings you here? 
I want nothing of you. 

Bettie. You do treat old friends rather coolly, so it would appear. 

Louis. This is no place for you to come. If your business is with 
me, what do you waut, quick? 

Bettie. Possibly you can remember a time when you called on me, 
and I did not have to call on you? 

Louis, (aside) Fool that 1 was! (aloud) Those times are gone. 
Things have changed. I am a gentleman. And you — 

Bettie. Was good enough for you once. But wait? Did you ever 
teUauyone where you got your money to play the gentleman with? 

Louis, {nervously) What do you mean? What money ?. 

Bettie. Oh! the money you took from the Company's safe, You 
were very confiding to me. It may be you do not remember — your 
memory is not over and above good, you know, seeing you've forgot- 
ten me so soon. 

Louis. There was no truth in what X said — it was all talk — I must 
have drank too much wine, and imagined it. 

Bettie. 1 think you had taken a little too much wine, or some- 
thing else. You would not waut me to mention to anyone what you 
said? 

Louis, (aside) The deuce, no! (aloud) There was nothing in it, 
Bettie. Of course I did not steal the money. If I had not been 
drinking, i never would have fold you any such story. 

Bettie. (aside) 1 do not doubt that. 

Louis. Bettie, vou have been having a rather hard time of it of 
late. 

Bettie. (aside) That I have, and no mistake, with mother sick and 
father out of work. 

Louis. Perhaps I have not done right by you, but that can not be 
helped now. I want to make some amends. Take this. 

{offers her money . 

Bettie. (indignantly) No, never! Do you think that money will 
repay for the wrongs you have done me? Will it heal a broken 



S THE SfRltid. 

heart? 

Louis. I meant no harm. It is all right for you to take it. No 
more than fair I help you. 

Bettie. I will never lake money from your hands. I came here to 
ask you to use your influence to g»t my father back into the shops. 
For him I ask it. but for myself I would starve before I would ask 
one favor from your hand. 

Louis. 1 will do what I can. We are laying off men every day, 
and it is doubtful — I can't promise. 

Bettie. I make no threats. 1 only ask it for old acquaintance sake. 
Ask it as a daughter. Ask it for father — mother — to keep us from 
starving. {exit l. k. , backing out slowly 

Louis, (solus) She has gone, has she! Ah! and she knows my 
secret. Better for her had she kept it to herself. 

Enter Fked, c. e. , icJiistling. 

Fred. Good morning, Mr. Stevenson. 

Louis. Good morning. If the Colonel comes in, please inform 
him that I will be back directly, {aside) I have private business of 
my own to attend to. (exit c. e. 

Fred, (singing) Fifteen dollars a week in my inside pocket. 
(takes off coat, sits down at desk at i,.) Well, I earn it. So up the hill 
of prosperity I climb. If fortune favors me, by the first of the year, 
it will be seventy-five dollars a month. That ought to support two 
—two, economical persons, willing to commence at the-bottom and 
work up. Ah! love in a cottage — that is my idea of it; but this will 
never do! (turns over some papers on the desk) It's a queer th i ug — this 
beiu' in love. It's distracting, (sings two lines of Annie Roonie or some 
other song — opening a letter) Here is a check. I will acknowledge 
receipt. Now this check is for $1,000. (holding it upand looking at it) 
1 wish I had one of my own. I'd buy that cottage Carrie likes so well. 
And then if she didn't fix the day — I'd — I'd — I'd make her! That's 
what I would, (rises from desk) Plague take that robbery. I'd 
marry Carrie just as quick even if I kne.v her father stole tha^t 
money. But he didn't! Well, if I don't get to work, I'll not get 
that raise in salary. 

Enter Col. Dodson, c. e. , unobserved. 

Col. No, I don't believe you will either. Not unless you give 
better attention than you were doing just now. 

Fred. I beg pardon, Colonel, it is before office hours. Also, a raise 
in my salary in expectancy makes work lighter. 

Col. (looking at his watch) Humph! I guess that it will be in ex- 
pectancj'. I will bear it in mind, though. The present conditions 
of business, however, do not warrent me in offering you much en- 
couragement. Our force in the shops will have to be cut down. 
We will notify the men, too, of a ten per cent cut in wages, (picks 
up a letter) What is this? That new engine we sent to the Central 
Railway Company has been returned — not up to contract — doesn't 
-work satisfactorily! 

Fred, (busy writing) Yes, sir! 

Col. And this is the first order we have filled for the Central' If 
this is the kind of work we send out, we are not likely to receive any 
more orders from them, Where is Louis? 



THE STRIKE. <j 

Fred. He told me he would be back directly. 
Col. I will consult Mr. Stevensou regarding this. 

{exit l. e. witli letter 

Enter Louis, c. e. 

Lot/is. What! the Colonel been here? He's getting- down to the 
office unusually early, seems to me. 

iFred. He is often here before business hours. 

IjOUU. I suppose that you told him that 1 was usually late? 

Fred. I told him what you told me to tell him. 

Louis. You did! {turning over papers on his desk) Well, did you 
see a letter from the Central Railway Company? 

Fred, The Colonel has the letter. 

Louis. The devil he has! How was the old man, was he much 
riled up over it? 

Fred, He took it very quietly, considering everything. 

Louis. You can depend upon it that he took it with a grimace, as 
if he had taken a dose of quinine. It was not a sweet dose. Robert 
Belknap is responsible for that piece of work leaving the shop im- 
perfect. 

Fred. If I remember right, it was your father who signed the 
inspector's receipt— that he made all the tests. 

Louis. If you remember right! I know better. Look at the cer- 
tificate. It is number 417, and you will see that it is signed Robert 
Belknap. 

Fred, {takinq papers out of pigeon-hole in his desk, and looking among 
them) There was a certificate signed by your father — I am positive 
of it. 

Louis, {looking over his shoulder and pointing) There it is — you 
know Belknap's handwriting! 

Fred. But I am positive — 

Louis. I don't care what you are positive of! There is the 
evidence in black and white. Dispute it if you canl 

Enter Ariel Dodson, c. e. 

(Louis bowing politely) Ah! Miss Dodson. A pleasant surprise to see 
you this morning. 

Ariel. Thank you, Mr. Stevenson. Is my father here? 

Louis. He is somewhere in the shops. I shall be pleased to call 
him if you wish. 

Ariel. No — I will go into the shops myself — {starts toward l. e.) I 
like to see the machinery — and watch the men at work — but — no— I 
might soil my dress. 

Louis. Besides it is no place for a lady to go, among rough men, 
and there is some danger — accidents are not infrequent. 1 will 
speak to your father. 

Ariel, {hesitating) He may be busy! 

Louis. Never so busy but that he can see his daughter. 



Ariel. 


(as 


de) I f I coi 


Id have but a 


word with 


Roberl ! 


'Twould 


not be 


even 


prob 


able. 


(with 


sudden 


inspiration 


Ah, I k 


low! (to 


Louis) 


You 


may speak 


to my 


father. 


and tell h 


im that 1 


wish to 


see him 


as s< 


>on as 


he is i 


it lib'e 


•tv— 1 w 


ill wait in 


the carria 


o-p. 


Louis. 


{bo 


Wing) 


With 


pleasure, Miss Dodson. 


















{exit at i 


. e., dropn 


a paper 



10 THE STRTKE{ 

Ariel, (nervously, to Fbeo) You are a friend of Robert Belknap's? 

Fred, (getting up from Ms'desk) Indeed 1 am! We have been close 
friends for years. And why should we not be? No truer, nobler 
fellow ever breathed than he. His word is as good as the deed — his 
honesty and integrity, above reproach. 

Ariel. Then I can trust you With this note for him. Do not men- 
tion it — my father has forbidden me to meet him. 

{hands Fred a letter 

Fred. This letter shall be delivered safely into his hands. Robert 
Belknap feels very keenly the distrust with which people regard 
him. He is very sensitive when his honor is questioned. And has 
he not a right to be, when there is not the slightest grounds for im- 
plicating him in the robbery? 

Ariel. Oh, it is too bad. I do believe him innocent! 

Fred Believe him innocent! I know that he is innocent! 

Ariel: Would that the proof were not wanting. But truth will 
triumph! 1 know it will! But my father will be waiting for me — I 
must go. (exit c. e. 

Fred, (solas) Yes, truth will triumph! Robert Belknap's name 
shall be vindicated! (picks up the certificate Louis dropped) What is 
this? Certificate No. 417, signed Alex Stevenson! I knew hesigned 
it. The other is a forgery. 

Enter Louis, l. e., unobserved, snatches the certificate /row Fred's hand. 

Louis. This belongs to me! 

CUB TAUT, 



ACT II. 

SCENE.— Robert Belknap's home— a plainly furnished room with 
table set — c. and l. e. — Carrie Belknap seated in a rocking chair, 
sewing. 

Carrie, (solus) T wonder what has detained Robert so long this 
evening. I have been waiting supper an hour. 1 fear something 
h;is gone wrong al the shops, {rises and listens) Since father's death, 
and all the trouble about the robbery. I have lived in constant dread 
and apprehension of some impending calamity, (listens again) Ah! 
there he comes now. 1 hear his footsteps! 

Enter Robert Belknap, dejectedly. 

Why, Robert, what has kept you so long? I have been waiting sup- 
per for you all this time! 

Bel. You should not have waited for me, sister. I know that I 
am late this evening, but am likely to be early enough in the future. 
Things have gone badly at the shops. There is not work enough to 
keep all the men busy, so — 

Carrie. So what? The shops have shut down, or — 

Bel. About the same thing — short time— another ten per cent cut 
of wages has been ordered. 

Carrie. Another cut, and following so close on the one made but 



TILE STRIKE. 11 

a short time ago? It will go hard with some of the men who have 
large families to support. 

Bel. Yes, the men have my sympathy. Some of them have been 
idle now for a long time. 

Carrie. We must ley and help some of the families. 

Bel. Yes. but we can do lillle. 1 am now one of those who are 
out of employment. 

Carrie. What do you mean? It can not be— you discharged? 

Bel. Yes. it seems that my services are no longer needed. 

Carrie. And why? There must be some reason for this. 

Bel. It would take too long to tell the whole story. I have felt it 
coming ever since the robbery- There has been an influence 
brought to bear against me. Yesterday an engine was returned to 
the shops. Stevenson says that I inspected the work, and passed 
upon it, but Stevenson lies. 

Carrie. Hush! Do not talk so. You can explain to Col. Dodson. 

Bel. Explain to a man who will not listen to reason — to a man 
who is the dupe of my worst enemy? Why, 1 am powerless to do 
anything! If I am struck, L have to take the blow — that is all! 

Carrie. I do not like to hear you talk this way. Are you not mis- 
judging Stevenson? He has always professed to be your friend. 
The Colonel has a right to rely upon what he says, for he holds a 
position above you. 

Bel. My promotions were earned. But an excuse for my discharge 
has been wanting. It is not enough that my father should be made 
to suffer for a crime he never committed, but I must be treated as 
though I w ere a common thief. 

Carrie. O! Robert, has it come to this? I know that my father 
was innocent — but the proof — 

Bel. There was no proof — not one particle of proof — not even 
grounds for a reasonable suspicion of guilt! 

Carrie. But he was not proven, not guilty. The jury disagreed. 

Bel. Not proven! Is he then condemned? As true as there is a 
God above, it shall be proven some day that he was innocent.' 

Carrie, (aside) For him — too tardy, would justice be. (aloud) 
Till it is proven we must bear— 

Bel. (holding up Ms hand) Stop! I know it all too well! Has it 
not hung over me like a horrible nightmare? Has it not followed 
me like an evil spirit I could not escape from? Am I not looked 
upon with suspicion? Has it not placed me under a ban — made me 
a social outcast? 

Carrie. Y'es, yes! T know — I feel all this. The disgrace — could 1 
flee from it! Sometimes I think we should go away from here, but 
it would follow us, no matter where we went. 

Bel. Y T es, it would be like fleeing before one's own shadow. 

Carrie. But come, supper is waiting. 

Bel. (sitting down at the table) I am not hungry. My thoughts are 
too busy for me to think of eating. It is too much to bear uncom- 
plainingly. . (covers his face with his hands 

Enter Fred, c. e. , excitedly. 

Fred, (suddenly looking alarmed) What! Carrie— some trouble? 

Carrie, (turning) Always trouble now. 

Fred. Have you heard that the men are going out on a strike? I 



12 THE STRIKE. 

accidentally discovered that this course liad been determined upon. 

Bel. (rising) I expected it! They have reason for being dissatis- 
fied. Do you know I h*- particulars? 

Fred. Nothing, only ilia) l In- majority of the men favor a strike. 
Definite action will be lak'en al their meeting to-night. There isn't 
a doubt but that they will go out. 

Bel. I have known it— it was sure to come. I must meet, with 
the men. (starts to go 

Fred. Stay, I almost forgot— I have a message for you. 

(hands him a letter 

B<1. From the Colonel? (looks at the address) No! a lady's hand- 
writing, (aside) It — it can't be — (opening the envelope) from Ariel. 
She wishes to meet me — to-night. Once more to touch her hand. 
Could we but fly from here. No — her honor must be protected, (to 
CjAKKJtfi) I must go as soon as I can dress. 1 have an appointment. 

Carrie. Robert. I do not want you to go, but if you must, you 
will use your influence to promote harmony, and prevent this strike? 

Bel. The strike — O — yes, I will use my influence with the men. 
Always for the men. It matters not that L have grievences— that I 
have wrongs to set right! (exit l. k. 

Enter Louis, c. e., unobserved. 

Louts, (aside) Rather bold words — he has grievances — wrongs to 
set right. The Colonel shall hear of this. 

Fred, (sees Louis) Ah, Mr. Stevenson! 

Carrie. Good evening, Mr. Stevenson. I did not hear you. 

Louis. 1 thought likely, and as the door stood unlatched, I came 
in. A statement for Robert — his time, that is all. 

(hands paper to Cahiue 

Carrie. Will you not stop? I will ask you to have supper with 
us? 

Louis. No, thank you, I have not yet been home. (exit c. e. 

Fred. I do not like that! He must have overheard what was 
said.. That statement was not so important, it could have been 
delivered at the office when called for. 

Carrie. Do you think Louis unfriendly to Robert? 

Fred. I have no reason for believing him friendly. Besides. I 
have noticed a change in him of late. He has not that open handed 
honest wa} 7 he once had. Then, Robert and he have been rivals. 

Carrie But Robert can never expect to marry Ariel — not after 
what has occurred. O! what a lot of trouble we have had 1 Jt has 
come like a cloud and shut out the very light of heaven. 

Fred. You make too much of it, Carrie! There is never a cloud 
so dark, but the sun shines beyond. 

Carrie, (aside) It may be that the sun shines beyond the clouds. 
For Robert it will never shine as brightly as in the past. He loves 
Ariel— passionately. Ah! I can see his reasons for disliking Steven- 
son! What can so surely make us mad, as love? 

Fred, (approaching Cakkie) Carrie, let me help you. Why put 
me off— keep me in suspense? You play at love, or is it that you do 
not love me? 

Carrie. I love you too well, Fred, and would not let you rush 
headlong into such a marriage as ours would be. The disgrace I 
have to bear is enough for me. I would not bring it upon you. 



THE STRIKE, 1J 

Fred. I do not fear it. 

Carrie. You do not realize w hat it would be to marry a felon's 
daughter! The shame — the disgrace! ITow il would sully your own 
name! What people would say!* How in a hundred ways ii would 
cause vou to blush! No, 1 will spare you from what I have suffered. 

Fred. Did I not know that your father was innocent, il would 
make no difference with me! Even had your father committed the 
crime, is that any reason why a stain should be cast upon your 
name? 

Carrie. But 'tis made a reason. 

Fred, {passionately) It is you I love, Carrie, because T know that 
you are good and pure. Now you put me off with an excuse which 
makes me hate myself, and think myself a coward, a rascal, a villain. 
You would have me desert you when you most, need a friend. 

Carrie. Stop, foolish boy! You do not know the folly you would 
be guilty of. 

Fred. I know that my love for you is true and honest. For you 
I would willingly risk my life. And for fear of idle gossip and 
meddling tongues, you would have me be a coward. 

Carrie. I would have you show your courage in some other way. 
Could you but know how bitter life has been for me — the looks that 
are more than words — the little slights— the coolness of friends, then 
you would know why it is that 1 can not be your wife. Xo! no' as 
much as I love you, 1 can not be your wife while under the shadow 
of this disgrace. 

Fred. If your father's name is freed from all implication in the 
crime? 

Carrie. Then yes, if you wish it. 

Fred. His name shall be cleared. A crime so foul shall not go 
unpunished, if not for the sake of the memory of the dead, then for 
the living. {takes Iter hands in his, and as they stand together 

Enter Robert, l. e. — they hear him and start. 

Bel. {approaching, and talcing each by the hand) My sister. My 
brother. Should anything happen to me, you Fred will stand in my 
place, if not a brother, as a husband. May God bless you both. 

CURTAIN. 



ACT III. 

SCENE. — Park near Colonel Dodson's house, irith trees in the back- 
ground — stage darkened. 

Enter Stevenson and Louis, l. e., talking. 

Stev. If you had used your influence with the men, this strike 
might have been averted. 

Louis. It suits my purpose. But don't lay it to me — my influence 
with the men don't go very far. 

Stev. How can it suit your purpose. What damnable purpose 
have you, that you can profit by having four hundred men out of 
work, and the shops idle? 



U THE STRIKE. 

Louis. I gain opportunity and co-operation, both valuable allies . 
But I want your assistance. You will see that Belknap is implicated 
in that conspiracy to destroy the Colonel's house. 

Stew. I understand. 

Louis. He may weaken. See that he is drugged. 

Stev. \ understand. Your tool again. [ serve you, because I 
have gone too far to turn back. But God knows that I hate this 
business. {exit k. k. 

Louis, (solus) Well, well, some things are a little disagreeable. 
I have a piece of business I do not like very well, and the sooner it 
is over, the better. Bettie Norris passes here this evening. If it 
should happen that she is not seen again, what matters it? She 
knows quite too much for my safety. A slip of the tongue, a care- 
less remark, and the game is lost, (listening) Some one comes. 

Enter Drakes, r. e.~ muttering to himself. \ 

Well, here you are, Drakes. Now as to this matter — 

Drakes. I'm at yer service. Money buys me. 

Louis. What I want is this, it is necessary that a certain person 
— a woman — be put out of the way. In what manner, or what be- 
comes of her, does not concern me. 

Drakes. Er—er— woman, you say? 

Louis. Yes, a woman— a wench — a female — what difference does 
it make who she is? 

Drakes. Er—er — none. None whatever. 

Louis. You must make no mistake — I'll give the signal. But 
remember, if ever one word escapes from your lips regarding this 
matter, you die? 

Drakes. Niver a word, (aside) It would be like him to do as he 
says. 

Louis. 'Tis well, then. But should you play me false — (draws 
revolver) you fail me, you know the consequences. 

Drakes, (cringeing) Take care there, it might be loaded. 

Louis. I know that it's loaded. I loaded it myself. One touch 
of my finger, and 3 r ou roll in the dust. 

Drakes. Say, point her the other way — yer might accidentally let 
her go off! 

Louis. No accidents unless you fail me. 

(puts revolver into his pocket 

Drakes. I'm yer man fur anythin' yer want done. Show me the 
wench! I'll do the work, (draws a knife and advances toward Lomg 
threateningly) I'll kill her, if yer but say so! 

Louis, (drawing back) Look out what you are doing, you fool. 
Put up your knife. I said 1 wanted her put out of the way. Jn 
what manner, does not concern me. 

Drakes. Y e r f o rgo t o n e 1 i 1 1 1 e ■ m a 1 1 e r . 

Louis. What. 

Drakes, (hoarse whisper) Ther money. 

Louis. Here it is. (takes money from his pocket and gives it to him) 
Fifty dollars— that was the agreement. 

Drakes. An' fifty more when the work is done. Don't you forget 
that. 

Louis. That is the agreement. (exit it. k. 

Drakes, (solus) HaJ ha! ha! Fifty dollars. More money 'n 1 seen 



THE STRIKE. 15 

fur many a day. Ha! ha! ha! an easy job — only a woman. 
Enter Ruffian, l. e. 

Ruffian. Hi there, yer got the. swag? 

Brakes. An' the devil it's safe. A woman it is — she's to be put 
out of the way. 

lluf. We're to kill her. 

Brakes. Put her out of the way, or by the devil we'll be made to 
roll in the dust — yer hear? 

lluf. We'll make a sure job of it. {produces a knife) Feel the 
edge of this. I ground her myself. 

Brakes. An' tor what do I want to feel it for? (produces a flask) 
Have a bit. won't yer? (drinks himself and then pusses the bottle) 
That's the si nil'. 

Ruf. (after drinking) And sure it is. 

Brakes. Hist! Get behind ;i free. 

(they retire-— Drakes l. and Ruffian r. 

Enter Bettie, l. e., cautiously. 

Bettie. (looking about her) I thought I heard a step. 

(sees Louis who appears from r., and gives a slight cry 

Louis. It is you, is it? Art- you not out rather late? 

Bettie. Louis Stevenson! you here! How you frightened me! 

Louis. Ha, ha, ha! I have been waiting for you. You waited to 
see me once— remember? Turn about is fair play. 

Bettie. I do hot understand. What do you mean? 

Louis. Simply that I knew when you went home you would 'pass 
through the park, and have wailed for you. I have a little matter 
of business that 1 thought it might be well for us to talk over 
privately. /. 

Bettie. With me? 

Louis. We will not waste words. To the point — what I have to 
say is, you know too much of my past. My proposition is that you 
go away from here— disappear — and then you can not be questioned. 

Bettie. Go away! Where would you have me go? I have no 
money. 

Louis. Go to the devil, anywhere, only that you leave here. I will 
furnish you with money. 

Bettie. Keep your money. I want none of it. T understand your 
plan. You are afraid that I will speak the truth. Once you said 
you would marry me. Now it is another girl. You would wreck 
her happiness, that you might obtain her father's money. Think 
you that I.will help you do this? 

Louis. Bettie, listen to me? 

Bettie. 1 have already listened to you too often. 

Louis. You think me heartless and deceitful — you misjudge me. 
I told the truth when I said that I loved you. But I could not afford 
to marry on the salary [ was receiving. Bettie, I still love you! 
Wait until I get hold of old Dodson's thousands, and there are 
divorce courts. When I am free, then I will keep my promise. 

Bettie. Your promise is not worth that! (snaps her fingers in his 
fare) Ha, ha. ha! You marry me? No, never! I scorn you! I des- 
pise you! L was once fool enough to believe you, but with bitter 
tears of regret have I paid the penalty. I am not again to be. bought 



1G THE STRIKE, 

A\i Mi promises. You are a villain — a thief. You stole tlie money 
from the company's sai"e. One word from me, and you occupy a 
prison cell. 

Louis. A prison cell! Ha, ha! a brave speech! 

Bettie. I will expose you and your shameless deeds. 

Louis. Not so bold, my pretty girl. Be careful what you say. 
(show* his revolver) An accidental discharge, a lifeless body, a revolver 
lying near — it would point to suicide. Who could say different? 
Hut, accede to my plans, and all will be well. 

Bettie. {drawing back) Never! Shoot, if you dare! Do your 
worst — take advantage of a helpless woman that you have decoyed 
into your power. lam not afraid to die! But the memory of the 
crime will haunt your dreams — make you wretched — miserable. 

Louis. You refuse? 

Bettie. I refuse! 

Louu. My plans are not to be frustrated! I am not to be balked 
by a woman! Ho! Then! (steps back 

Enter Drakes, l. e. and Ruffian, r. e. 

Bettie. {turning to l. sees Drakes) What! Who are you? (Drakes 
draws a knife and advances, Bettie retreats toward r.) Do not kill me 
— have mercy? 

Jtuf. Come, through with this business. 

Bettie. (turning, sees the Ruffian) Help! murder! 

Bettie throws up her hands, falls forward, caught by Ruffian and car- 
ried out r. — exit Drakes, r. e. 

Louis. Nothing more to fear from her? (exit r. e. 

Enter Fred, l. e., stops and listens. 

Fred. I thought I heard a cry for help. I am sure it was a 
woman, (listens) Yes, I hear some one down the path. 1 may yet 
be of assistance. (exit r. e. hastily 

Enter Ariel and Kate, l. e. 

Ariel. This is the place by this old tree. Often have we met here 
before. Xo one would fear danger here. 

Kate. But I'm half afraid to be here. I did not know that the 
grove was so dark at night. 

Ariel. • I fear not the darkness! Tt is a friendly covering. But 
'tis unfortunate when lovers have to envelope themselves in night's 
cloak, and hide themselves as some culprit who skulks along iu out 
of the way places, and finds in darkness a cover for his evil deeds. 

Kate. Indeed it is, and my conscience troubles me as if I were 
doing something I ought not to do. My — (shivering) the damp and 
the gloom send a shiver through me, and I'm afraid of every shadow. 

Ariel. Ah! timid girl, we are safe enough here. L would meet 
Robert once more — it may be the last time. Lovers mind not the 
damp and gloom if but each others hands they clasp! Nor feel they 
the night dews when their blood runs warm, and their heartbeats 
are quickened by the joy of each other's presence, (listening) Hark! 
1 thought 1 heard a step! Let us step behind these trees, and if it 
be Robert, 1 will meet him alone. (they retire 



THE STRTKE. • 17 

Enter Belknap, r. e. 

Bel. How strong is love's ardor when such a gloomy spot as this 
is selected as a meeting- place. How unfortunate a love is ours, 
when, to meet each other, we must seek the cover of night. This is 
the last time that I shall see Ariel. Her honer demands that we do 
not meet again. Yet, I could not deny this one last meeting — but 
once again to touch her hand — once more to gaze into her lace. 
{listens) Should she not come — if detained — intercepted! (Ariel 
appears) Ariel, you venture all this for me — come to this lonely 
place? 

Ariel, (thr owing herself into Robert' s arms) I think not of that! 
The pleasure of being by your side causes the gloom to vanish. 
These trees afford a friendly protection. They betray no.secrets. 

Bel. But you did not come alone, to-night? 

Ariel. No, Kate came with me. We can trust her. 

Bel. I blame myself that I let 3 T ou come. [ love you too well, 
Ariel, to let you peril your good name by clandestine meetings with 
me. We meet to-night but to part. 

Ariel. And why do you say that we are to part? Are there bar- 
riers so high that they can not be surmounted? Are there lock- 
smiths so cunning that love can not find a way to shove their bolts? 

Bel. It is more than locks and bolts. There are things which can 
not be overcome. God knows that I have fought against them — that 
I have been honest — tried to be a man. Forgive me if in the ardor 
of my love I have been rash? 

Ariel. But who can tell how soon all obstacles may be removed ? 
Have courage, and do not despair? I ask not to be released from my 
promise to you! 

Bel. For your sake I have released you. I should never have 
asked you to be my wife. I am not worthy of you. I never was 
worthy of you. And yet, you gave me your love, a love as pure and 
confiding as ever woman give to man. It was more than I had a 
right to accept — more than you had a right to give. I will not drag 
you down to my own level. No, never! Think me not capable of 
such an act? Let us part — friends. It is all I can ask. 

Ariel. Robert, I do not believe the charges which have been made 
against you! I will defy public sentiment! Yes, I will brave my 
own father's anger! Your love is all I ask. What your lot may *-K 
I am willing to share it. Remember, my father started in life as a 
poor mechanic. My mother was his wife in the days of his poverty. 
Did she shrink from bearing her share of the burden? No, never! 
Were she alive to-day she would not oppose her daughter marrying 
a man because he was poor. 

Bel. Ah! Ariel, little you know what poverty is! Your white 
hands were never made for hard work. 

Ariel. My hands were not made for idleness. 

Bel. It would be madness! Help me to be brave. I was mistaken 
—you could not understand — it must be — better we part now. 

Ariel. You force this upon me? You cast me off ? lam nothing 
to you? 

Bel. Ariel, forgive me if I cause you pain! 

Ariel. And now you would be rid of me? 

Bel. Don't! I have enough to bear. Heaven knows this is made 
necessary. I can not even give you the poor cheer of a laboring 



IS THE STRIKE. 

man's cottage. lam to be a wanderer. 1 must work to pay back 
every cent of that money taken from the company. 
. Ariel. You pay it back? 

Bel. Yes, if God grants me life and health. 

Ariel. And you innocent — your father — 

Bel. Innocent in the sight of heaven. But my father was respon- 
sible for the safety of .that money. 

Arid. I do not understand. But you are not bound — 

Bel. Don't tempt me from the path of duty. Already I have kept 
you too. long. You will be missed. r 

Ariel, (aside) O, this is too bitter! My love was life — without it, 
life is death — living death, (aloud) You bid me go — this — and we 
are noi to meet again? 

Bel. (taking her hand) Yes — good-bye — Ariel. 

Ariel, (aside) And this is all. (exit l. e. 

Bel. O! my God, she" is gone! Am I forever to dwell in this black 
night? What reason have I for living? lean find relict' in death. 
No, it would not remove the stain from my father's name! It would 
not dispel the cloud which darkens my sister's life. My life is not 
my own! I must live — for others — if — not — for myself, (exit r. e. 

Enter Drakes and Ruffian, l. e. 

Drakes. An' Oi niver thought of the old mill. 

Ruf. Yer .think she's safe? 

Drakes. An' the divil she'll get away. 

Ruf. Er — she's a mad un. 

Drakes. Hie — hie — yer ought to see Mary. 

Ruf. An' who in the divil is Mary? 

Drakes. Hie — hie— Mary's me wife. Er family man Oi am. Hie 
— hie — but Mary's a terror. 

Ruf. An' did she marry yer for yer beauty, 

Drakes. Faith an' she did. Hie — hie — we're a lovely pair. 

{stand side by side 

Ruf. Thot's us. (lock arms 

Drakes. We're a pair of trumps. Hie — hie— * 

Ruf (breaking away) Come on with ye. 

Drakes. Hie — hie — yer say Mary'U have it Oi'm drunk. Y T er just 
go. Hie — Oi won't go home till morning. 

Ruf. An' Oi'll be goin', without yer. (exit r. e. 

Drake*. An' good day to ye. An' Oi'll slape in the park. Faith, 
an' if there was only a bench. Hie — hie — an' Mary may kape a 
waiting. Oi'll niver go home to-night. Hie — hie — (sits down behind a 
tree) An' if Oi slape here what is it to any one? 

Enter Stevenson and Belknap, l. e. 

Stev. Robert, I do not want you to think hard of me. 

Bel. But it was through you that I lost my place. Tell me why 
I was discharged? The Colonel gave me no reason — he would not 
even talk with me. Certainly you can explain this. 

Stev. How should I know? 

Bel. You are foreman in the shops. The Colonel consults you 
regarding such matters. 

Stev, Sometimes, but not in your case. Since the robbery the 
Colonel has only waited au excuse to discharge you. 



THE HTlilKU. 19 

Bel. You mean to tell me that the Colonel believes that I know 
anything about that robbery? 

Stev. No, most assuredly not. It would be all my place is worth 
were I to mention it openly, but who could have taken the money 
but Col. Dodson himself? He had access to I he safe. 

Bel. What, JDol. Dodson took it. No! 

Stev. Wail. It is reasonable to suppose so. He had been specu- 
lating. His credit was strained. No doubt he borrowed it — at least 
intended to replace it, but the loss was discovered. There was no 
time or opportunity lor explanation, and it would have been ex- 
ceedingly embarrassing to the Col. Dodson to have made any ex- 
planations. Who was in charge of the funds? The cashier, your 
father. It was easy to fasten the y;uilt on him. Why is it that the 
Colonel has taken a sudden dislike to you, will not talk. with you, 
will not see 3 T ou? Have you not seen this? Are you blind? 

Bel. (aside) My God, can it be. I seem to see it in a different 
light now. The Colonel took the money — Col. Dodson — he the thief. 
O! my father, my father! It killed him. He was never himself 
again after being accused of the crime! 

Stev. This is not all. Was it not strange for Colonel Dodson to 
keep the son of the man who robbed him in his employ? But he 
grew suspicious — he is afraid of you. 

Bel. Great God, is there no such thing as justice? Is there no 
such thing as honor? 

Stev. Come! I hear some one coming. We can talk this matter 
over as we go along. 

Bel. (aside) Can this be true? The Colonel knew my father was 
innocent. (exeunt l. e. 

Enter Carrie, r. e., cautiously. 

Carrie, (looking about her) I wonder what is going to happen. 
Men hurry by me, some of them under the influence of liquor. 
Even the air seems to breath of trouble, and Robert has not been 
home for supper. , 

Enter Fred, r. e. 

Fred, (stopping abruptly) What, you, Carrie! And out alone at 
this time of night! It is not safe! 

Carrie, (putting her hand on Fred's shoulder, and looking up into his 
face) Oh, Fred, I am so glad to see you! What is it — so much ex- 
citement? And have you seen Robert? 

Fred, (assuringly) Never you fear for Robert's safety! But you 
should not be out alone! Come, I -will see you home. 

Carrie. But what is going to happen? Is there going to be a riot? 

Fred. No one can tell, but I would not be surprised if it came to 
that. The company has had its property closely guarded all day. 
An attempt is going to be made to put new men in the places of the 
strikers, (noise in distance) There, you can hear the men now. 

Carrie. I wish I knew where Robert was. (sounds grow louder) 
Are they coming this way? 

Fred. It may be. At least things look bad. You should not be 
out. 

Carrie. If I could only find Robert. 

Fred. Come, and after I have seen you home I will try and find 



to TEE STRIKE. 

him. 

Carrie. Let me go with you? 

Fred, I can not. Coming through the park, not an hour ago, I 
heard a woman's screams. I was about to follow, but was intercep- 
ted by Louis Stevenson. I will tell yon more as We go along. 

Carrie. A woman's screams. Who could it have been? 

Fred. I do not know. But it is not safe here. 

Carrie. I am alarmed for Robert's safety. 

Fred, {taking hold of- her arm) Come, we must hasten. 

Carrie, {aside) 1 fear to go, and I fear to stay! Something is 
going to happen — O! I know it — I can feel it. (exeunt l. e. 

Enter Stevenson and Belknap, r. e. 

Stev. This is your opportunity. 

Bel. My opportunity! The Colonel took the money— stole it. He 
is my father's murderer. 

Stev. Yes! and as 'tis you who has suffered most, it shall be in 
your power to meet out vengence against your father's murderer. Is 
not such revenge sweet? 

Bel. 1 meet out revenge! {aside) How queer I feel! T do not 
seem to understand! My head! It is that liquor I drank. Oh! yes, 
revenge — avenge the wrong done my father. Yes, I know now. 

Stev. For the man who wrecked your own life, and destroyed 
your sister's happiness, is there any punishment too severe — and 
means that are not justifiable? This bomb {exhibiting the bomb) gives 
you the means of redress. A time fuse is attached. Hurl this at 
the man who is your father's murderer. 

Bel. What— this a bomb — you would have me throw it? 

Stev. Just so! You hesitate? Are you a coward? Is the murder 
of your father nothing to you? The wrong done your sister? Why 
do you stand there staring at me? 

Bel. {aside) I don't seem to understand. I feel so strange! 

Stev. Coward ! 

Bel. I, a coward! No, never! Ha, ha, ha! Did you think me a 
coward? Give me the bomb. I will hurl it into his very face! 
Down with tyrants! This in the name of justice! (takes bomb 

(Drakes aroused by noise, listens unseen at rear 

Stev. That is the way to talk. See, yonder is the Colonel's house! 
{points to l.) You see that lower window — there where the light is 
— the Colonel occupies that room. 

Brakes, (aside) An' what in the devil is it all about? 

Bel. Yes, it is the Colonel's library. 

Brakes. An' a foin library it is. 

■ Stev. Fling this bomb through the window! I will light it. 
(strikes a match and lights the fuse) Quick — it will not burn long! 

Brakes, (aside) May the holy saints protect me. * 

(frightened, gets behind a tree 

Bel. (aside, hesitating) What! And Ariel — should she be killed! 
What am I doing? Am I mad? (aloud) You would have me com- 
mit murder! 

Stev. Quick — the fuse is burning — your lifel 

Bel. My life is nothing to me. 

Stev. Coward, you play me false 1 

Bel. I will not throw it! 

Stev. (rushing upon himy Your life shall pay for thisl 



THE STRIKE. SI 

Stevenson stands with bark to r. and Rflknap Imrles Mm, back as lie 
Htshes upon hint, and then, throws the bomb past him to r. 

Bel. Wretch! 

Louis, {rushing in fromj*. with drawn revolver) You shall nob escape 

me! 

The bomb explodes, and immediately after Louts fires — Bblknap has 
turned and falls in c. of stage. 

Stev. (throwing his hands to his breast) My God, I am shot! 

(falls at r. side 
Loins. Father! (starts toward him. stops and points to Belknap) 
'Twas meant for you. (stooping over his father) He's done tor. (ris- 
ing) I must conceal my part in this affair. 

(lays his revolver by Belknap 

Enter in order Drakes, Workman, Colonel and Ariel from c. and 
l. and Fred /row r. — Louis bends over his father. 

Brakes. I thought me breath had flown from me body. Someone 
sind for a doctor. 

Workman. A man shot! 

Col. What, Robert Belknap. Stevenson! (to Louis) This must 
have been an accident! 

Ariel, (clinging to Colonel) What, father, what is it? 

Louis, (rising, %o Colonel) An attempt to murder you. By an 
accident, miscarried. I was in time to prevent the crime. The 
bullet that was meant for me, my father received. Here is the mur- 
derer, (points to Belknap 

Brakes. Ther bullet was fired by Louis Stevenson. Faith, and it 
were! (Louis looks at him threateningly) by Robert Belknap. 

Col. (to Drakes) Man, you are excited. 

Officer, (stooping over and placing his hand over his heart) He is not 
yet dead. 

Col. Better he were. He is only saved for the gallows* 

Enter Carrie r. e. — rushing in, frightened. 

Carrie, (sees Belknap) My brother — my brother, killed! (stoops 
.over him and lifts up his head) Speak to me? It is me. Robert, 
Robert! O! why does not some one send for a doctor? 

Brakes. If Oi hadn't been killed myself Oi'd have gone. 

Louis. Little need for a doctor. Better die here than be hung. 

Ariel. This is so strange. 

Col. Not strange! (to .Louis) You who have saved my life 
deserve more than gratitude, my boy. (to Ariel) Ariel, you must 
recognize Mr. Stevenson's claim upon us. 

Ariel, (to Louis) Louis, forgive my coolness toward you. I shall 
endeavor to repay you for this debt I owe you for saving my father's 
life. 

Louis, (taking Ariel's hand) I would risk my life a dozen times 
for this little hand. You must help me bear my father's death. 

Ariel. Yes, yes. 

Carrie. Can it be he is dead? My brother, dead! Alone — alone! 
(faints, and Fred catches her, kneeling on one knee, supports her 

Fred. No, not alone! By heaven! God shall judge if this be not 
murder! 



M „_ THE STRIKE. 

ACT IV. 

SCE NE. — Grounds near Col. Dodson's house — trees in the background, 
old tree and shrubbery near the back and on either .side; garden 
benches o?' chairs — time, night — Ariel leaning against a tree, waiting. 

Enter Colonel, r. e. 

Ariel Father, what news? 

(hi. Everything the same. I thought all difficulties might be 
adjusted, but the men are unreasonable in their demands. I met a 
committee of the strikers not an hour ago, and they refused to ac- 
cept the company's terms. God knows L want to do what is right. 

Ariel. Will the shops remain idle? 

Vol. We can not afford to remain idle. We will have to put new 
men in. 

Ariel. And they will take the places of the old men? 

Vol. Yes. We will have no difficulty in filling their places. 

Ariel, It will cause much suffering among the families of the 
men thrown out of work. I believe if they knew how matters with 
the company are, they would accept the terms offered, and return 
to work. 

Vol. The men have little judgment or forethought. They are 
influenced by their leaders who think to dictate terms to the com- 
pany. But if we can not manage our own business we may as well 
go into bankruptcy — it will come to that sooner or later. 

Ariel. I am certain an agreement can be reached. Before this 
there has been good feeling between the officers of the company and 
the men. 

Vol. Yes, but somehow things have gone wrong since we lo^t that 
money. I do not know why it is. (starts to go l.) We've been hav- 
ing plenty of trouble. 

{drops a letter in taking his handkerchief from his pocket 

Ariel, {aside, picking up the letter and looking at the address) Why — 
it is Robert's handwriting! (to Colonel) Here — you have dropped 
a letter, (handing it to him) Is it important? 

Vol. No, it is nothing, (takes the letter) Some fellow writes to me, 
threatening my life. 

Ariel. Threatens your life? I did not know that you had an 
enemy! (aside) It surely was his handwriting! No, it could not 
be. He never would have threatened my father's life. 

Vol. Here, look at it? (thrusts it into her hand) I was intending 
to place it in the hands of the detective who is working on the 
Belknap case. What do you think of the handwriting? 

Ariel, (shrinking back, opening the letter) lean not read it well, it 
is so nearly dark, (aside) It looks like — no — he would not have 
written it. (examines it closely) It is his writing. No, no, it is 
different, (aloud) The writing is strange tome. The hand is dis- 
guised, (throws the letter on a seat 

Vol. (picking Hhe letter up — aside) Like a woman — impulsive- 
jump at things, (aloud) Answer me this, Ariel; do you think this 
could be Robert Belknap's handwriting? 

Ariel. No — it is different — it is not his writing. 

Vol. You, of course, are not aware that when Belknap was ar- 
rested for the murder of Stevenson, the officers searched his house. 



L.ofC. 



THE STRIKE. 23 

In one of Mie closets carefully hid, they found a large sum of money 
—more money than a fellow in Belknap's position was likely to come 
inlo possession of honestly. I at once put a detective upon the case. 
It had been intimated to me before this that Robert had a part in 
the robbery. God knows that I did not want to believe his father 
guilty, nor would I willingly believe his son guilty, but in the face 
of such evidence as has come to me, I am forced to this belief. 

Ariel. Father, it is bad enough that a guilty man escape punish- 
ment, but it is infinately worse that an innocent man is made to 
suffer for a crime he never committed. I believe that Robert 
f Belknap had no knowledge or part in the robbery. Until lie is 
proven guilty, do not condemn him. 

Col. There is proof enough that Robert Belknap is a murderer. 
In regard to the robbery, we will wait developments. 

Ariel, (aside) I can not realize it. iobert Belknap a murderer? 
He was always so kindhearted and generous— surely it can not be — ■ 
there is some mistake, (aloud) What does he say ? What explana- 
tion does he make? 

Col. None that I know of. I have not seen him. I do not wish 
to see him. 

Arieh Are you not too severe, father — too hasty in your judg- 
ment? The murder is shrouded in so much mystery. The affair is 
so singular — so strange — the circumstances so improbable! 

Col. Everything is explained! There is no mystery about the 
affair. It is as plain as daylight, and anyone could see that he was 
guilty. Defense in his case was useless. 

Ariel. Yet, there may be circumstances we know not of. It may 
have been an accident — or in self defense. 

Col.. If we had not undispu table evidence as to his guilt, there 
might be reason in what you say. But you, my daughter, wilf not 
defend a murderer? 

Ariel. I have a heart and a conscience. 

Col. Mere sentiment. 

Ariel. Father, remember how long t have known Robert Belknap 
— ever since we were children together. I speak in defeuce of one 
who has been my frjend — one I have known only good of. Can you 
think me devoid of all feeling. I can not .believe him guilty! Give 
-him the poor charity of a doubt! Admit the possibility that he may 
be innocent; or, at least, do not condemn him unheard. 

Col. This is not worthy of you, Ariel. Have you no pride? 
Come, my dear, we will talk of other things. The preparations for 
your marriage — your dresses! Let me see, when is the day set tor? 

Ariel, (aside) My marriage! God pity me, for in sight of heavem 
it will not be a marriage, (aloud) I wish-that it might not be hur- 
ried. You, father, will be left alone. My first duty is to consider 
your happiness and welfare. 

Col. For my happiness it will be sufficient that I see you married 
and settled in a home of your own. There are reasons why your 
marriage should not be delayed. 

Ariel. But, father — 

Col. Come, come! you are keeping me from my supper. 

(exit h. E. 

Ariel. One short week, then I am no longer free. And when the 
time comes, and I stand at the altar, instead of happy smiles more 
likely will come tears oi* sorrow. O! why could it not have been 



f>b THE STRIKE. 

him I have loved so long-. With him T could have smiled at poverty, 
but, 1 am forced into this ill assorted marriage. Oft' will my 
thoughts go out to that dark, narrow prison cell, to him, no less a 
prisoner than I will be, married to a man I do not love, (exit l. e. 

Enter Louis, r. b. 

Louis. I thought I saw my bird. Well, well, it is the cage, 
rather than the bird I want. I already fancy I see myself master 
around here. The Colonel has not long to live. He's an old dotard. 
Borne day, heart failure, a paralytic shock, and all is over. Ah, ha, 
ha! 1 am playing my cards well. 

Enter Kate, l. e. 

Kate. Mr. Stevenson. 

Louis, {turning and bowing) Miss Kate, please inform the Colonel 
that I wait his pleasure. (Kate starts to go, Louis calling) By the 
"way, please mention to my affiance that I have called. (Louis bow- 
ing, exit Kate, l. e., with courtesy) Ah! Ariel, my pretty girl— but 
what would she be without her, father's money? Take Iter (Hit of 
the luxury of this home— make a common mechanic's daughter of 
her, and she's no prettier than a score of girls L could name. Educa- 
tion, culture, associations have done their work. She's more of a 
lady, that's all. Ha, ha, ha! I'm a lucky dog. ^impatiently) I 
"wonder why the deuce the Colonel keeps me waiting. 

Enter Colonel, l. e. 

Col. Ah! it is you, Louis. Why did you not come in? My 
house is always open to you. 

Louis. I preferred to wait here. I have the honor of informing 
you that the strike is off. 

Col. (taking Louis by the hand) The strike is off! They accept 
our terms! 

Louis. They do. All difficulties have been adjusted, 

Col. This is too good! too good! {turns and goes to l., and calls) 
Ariel! Ariel! my daughter! (returns 

Enter Ariel, l. h. 

Ariel, Louis brings us good news. 

Ariel, (hesitating, aside) O! why should I dislike to meet him — 
he who is to be my husband — the one person whose presence should 
give me joy and happiness. 

Col. The strike is at an end. 

Ariel, (advancing) At an end! How thankful I am. (to Louis) 
Good evening, Mr. Stevenson. 

Ijouis. Miss Ariel. 

Col. (to Louis) I will leave Ariel to entertain you. I must see to 
giving some orders. The wheels of the shops shall move to-morrow. 

{exit L. E. 

Louis, (taking Ariel's hand) Why will you not call me Louis? 
You are so cold and formal! Am I unworthy of your love? 

Ariel, (withdrawing her hand) 1 do not consider you unworthy. 

Louis. I am beneath you, in birth, in fortune— for these reasons 



THE STRIKE. So 

you do not value my love! 

Ariel. Love does not consider rank and fortune. 

Louis. To be honest, 1 can but consider it; yet [ had hoped that 
in} 7 love and devotion would bridge the chasm which separates us: 
On the very eve of our marriage you greet me as you would greet a 
st ran g-er. 

Ariel. Not intentionally — I have tried — you can not understand. 
(approaching Mm) Would it not be better were our wedding day 
postponed? I've not been in the best of health of lute — the excite- 
ment — and all that has occurred during the past two months has 
caused a nervous strain. You will consent to this — just a short 
delay? v 

Louis, {aside) The deuce, no! I must insist! (aloud) Postponed 
wedding days are unlucky days. Consider, my love, how long [ 
have waited? A change of scenes, a short wedding tour will bring 
back the color to your cheeks. 

Ariel. Marriage is not a relation to be entered into hastily. And 
there are many things to be thought of and done in the meanwhile. 

Louis. Not hastily! I have waited years. Think how long it was 
before you would say, yes. Had not the prize been so fair, and well 
worth the winning, [ fear I would long since have given up in 
despair. But, Ariel, what reason is there that I should be longer 
put off? 

Ariel. I only asked it. (turning away, aside) I gave my hand, 
but the love every woman should give the man who is to be her 
husband, I could not give, (aloud) [ ask that you be not too hasty 
• — consider, that our marriage be not ill advised? 

Louis, (aside) Not ill advised for me. Everything depends upon 
it. (aloud) You gave your promise! I may yet win your heart. 

Ariel, jit was my father's wish, and it was your right, for you 
have a claim upon me for once having saved my life. 1 only asked 
that the day be postponed, but as it has been set, so let it stand. It 
matters not much — a month — a year — a little more or less, It is all 
to come in a lifetime, and life is short or long enough at worst or 
best. 

Louis, (aside) For worse or best! This kind of a spirit suits me 
well. Once we are married, and she will not be likely to oppose me. 
(aloud) You are despondent! The excitement and nervous strain 
has been too much for you. I can understand what your anxiety 
has been — the attempt to destroy the house— even the dauger you 
were daily exposed to. 

Ariel. {aside) lean not comprehend all that has transpired! 
And that night! Danger — (aloud) I never had fears for my own 
safety. 

Louis. You know about the letter to your father— the threats 
made! It is well that the perpetrator of such an outrage is safe be- 
hind prison bars. A narrow escape it was — 

Ariel, (holding up her hand) Don't! 1 wish I could blot the Whole 
scene from my memory! 

Louis. I will respect your wish. T, too, would if I could, blot 
from my mind the thought of what 1 saw that night — the explosion 
—the pistol shot — my own father lying dead at my feet! One happy 
thought alone remains to roe— that I was able — it may have been— 
to save your. life. But willingly again would I risk my own life to 
protect you from harm. 



£6 THE STRIKE. 

Ariel Tt would not be worth your while! But think me not un- 
grateful for such service. 1 will no longer seek to postpone our 
marriage. 

Louis. 1 knew you would not, Ariel. It will be a happy day. 
But I am keeping you too long! One kiss, and I am off! {kisses hei\ 
aside) The game is won! {aloud) Au revoir! {exit \,. i<;. 

Ariel. He has gone! It does not pain me to have him go, nor did 
ii give me pleasure to have him come! This is not love! No, no! 
Yet he is to be my husband. What will my life be? Of that 1 do 
not want to think. 'Twould drive me mad. 

Enter Carrie, r. bs. 

Carrie. Am I intruding? » 

Ariel, (turning) Oh! Miss Belknap, you wish to see me, or is it 
my father? 

Carrie. II* I may see your father. 

Ariel. It is in regard to your brother — I know without your tell- 
ing me. 

Carrie. What other reason could I have for coming here? I do 
not come to ask charity, but come seeking mercy. Yes, 1 come to 
ask mercy of one who knows not what mercy is. 

Ariel. You do my father an injustice. The matter rests wholly 
with the court. 

Carrie. Courts which are made the tools of the rich andin- 
iiuential. At whose instigation was it that my brother was charged 
with being a thief? Who is it that accuses him of being an assassin? 
Only a short time ago, none knew aught against him, his character 
was above reproach; now it is made out that he is a heartless villain, 
Yet, what evidence is there that he is guilty of.any crime? What 
are the circumstances under which he almost lost his own life? 
Does it seem probable that he is the hardened criminal he is repre r 
sen ted to be? 

Ariel. 1 have never believed that he was. 

Carrie. You have known him long? 

Ariel. Yes, since we were children — known him to respect him 
and love him. 

Carrie. It may be nothing to you now, who are so soon to marry 
another, but his love was that of devotion —even idolatry. You 
coldly cast him off. Even though you scorned his love, his devo- 
tion never ceased. He would have given his own life rather than 
the least harm come to you. Would you have cared had he been 
killed, or does it matter that he now lies sick, forsaken, friendless 
and in prison? 

Ariel. You wrong me! I never cast him off! It was his wish — 
he forced it upon me. 1 have alwa}S believed him innocent, have 
pled for him. went down upon my knees to my father, and begged 
of him to spare him. I have interceded for him all in vain. O! 
Kobert, Robert, you will not charge me with having turned against 
you. 

Carrie. He is too generous to do that. Yet. you are to marry 
another almost as soon as you have parted from hi in. Does that show 
your devotion — your love for my brother'.' Have you ever made 
inquiries regarding him ? Did it ever concern you that it was his 
love for you that brought him to death's door? No, you who are so 



THE STRIKE. 21 

soon to be the bride of another can easily forget him. 

Ariel. Stop! L have enough to bear! Your words cut me like a 
knife. I, false to your brother? Never! to my last day I will never 
cease to love him. I was forced to this promise. 1 could not refuse 
— I was powerless. 

Carrie. And you are to marry a man you do not love? 

Ariel. Yes, even so. 

Carrie. Ah, unhappy woman! 

Ariel. Yes, [ am unhappy. My life is miserable. I would have 
married Robert — shared poverty with him — forsaken home, father, 
everything. But he would not have it. He put me oft'. I thought 
it might be because he did not love me. 

Carrie. He loved you far too well. He would save you from dis- 
grace. He was unselfish. Did it ever occur to you that you are 
about to marry his worst enemy — the very man who has brought 
about his ruin? 

Ariel. Louis Stevenson his enemy? And why should that be? 

Carrie. Then, indeed, you have been blind. Listen, when my 
brother was sick and unconscious of what he was saying, he con- 
stantly mentioned your name, and always as if he would save you 
from some danger. Only incoherently could [ get the story, but 
from his own lips L learned that one whose name I will not mentiou, 
fired that shot, iutending it for him. Strange it was that it should 
have found another mark, strange indeed. Some things we can not 
understand, but 1 trust in an all merciful God. 

Ariel. Yes', strange, strange! I can not understand why Louis 
is so anxious our marriage shall take place. 

Carrie. There are reasons why. 

Ariel. Oh! I have beeu deceived. I have been blind. My promise 
has been wrung from me through false representations. Do you 
think I do not -suffer? What will my life be? What happiness can 
I expect? O! wretched, wretched that I am! 

Carrie. The delirium of fever often unseals the lips, but the truth 
is only partly told. 

Ariel. It is enough. 

Carrie. If I should see your father — my errand — ' 

Ariel. It would be of no avail. I have pled with him. He is 
immovable. No. no! I will not have you meet him. I will save you 
that pang. 

Carrie. Then I have accomplished nothing. Someday, when too 
late, truth may assert itself, (starts to go) Is there any word from 
you I might carry to my brother? 

Ariel. Y T es — wait! Tell him that 1 still believe him innocent. 
Better that I had been killed — no, no! do not tellhim that. It would 
make him unhappy. Give him my love. No. he would scorn it! 
But tell him — tell him that 1 am not false — tell him — no, I will go 
with you. Can I? He would not refuse to see me? 

Carrie. I do not think he would refuse to see you, but he would 
, blush to receive you within dingy prison Walls. 

Ariel. But I must see him. Does he not care for me? 

Enter Colonel, l. e., unobserved. 

Carrie. Robert still loves you. 

Col. What! This is — she comes here! (starts forward 



S3 THE STRIKE* 

Carrie. Never has lie uttered a word of censure or reproach. 

Col. (to Gamuk) What, do you want? 

Carrie. 1 did come, cojpe to— 

Col. I will not hear .you. Begone! These are my grounds! 

Artel, {clinging to her father, kneeling) Father, what has she done? 
Have pity! 

Carrie. No, I want not pity. 

Col. Begone, I say! What right have you to come here? (raising 
his hand as tf to strike her) 1 could .strike you to the earth! 

Enter Fred, r. e. 

Fred, (seizing the Colonel's uplifted arm) You would strike a 
wo m an 1 

CURTAIN. 



ACT V. 

SCENE. Interior of a prison— Belknap sitting on a stool or broken 
chair. 

Bel. A prison cell! This the reward for honesty! This, for the 
faithful discharge of my duty! 1, at times, think 1 am dreaming, 
or am I mad, and this a madhouse? My wound pains me. Would 
that it" had been fatal rather than this miserable existence. I've 
tried to recall where I was that night. I can't remember, it's all a 
blur. 'Twas the night of the riot — I was with Stevenson — we went 
into a saloon — and after that all is a blank. And, I killed Alex. 
Stevenson! They say I did — and I'm a 'murderer — murderer! And 
will be hanged! O my God! (clock strikes nine) A half hour more 
and I'm to receive my sentence. O God, I am innocent! Strange 
how laws are made to read. Is there not a greater crime I may yet 
be made to suffer for? (sounds heard without) Some one comes! 

Enter Carrie and Jailor or Officer, c. b. 

Officer. I will leave you with the prisoner. In one-half hour he 
is to be taken into court for sentence. (exit c. e. 

Carrie. Did you think that I would never come? 

Bel. No — but you were so long. Nothing can be done — there is 
no hope? I read it in your face. 

Carrie. All my efforts have been of no avail. Trust that the 
judge may be merciful. 

Bel. "Who is my judge but God, above? He knows that I am in- 
nocent, but men make laws and say that I am guilty. Whereon 
earth is there such a thing as justice? 

Carrie. O Robert, it breaks my heart! I had hoped — I have 
prayed — even to the last — and now — left alone — without you — 

Bel. Sister, be brave! I will try to be a man, let come what may. 
You will marry Fred — promise me you will? He has been like* a 
brother to me, and I will feel better knowing you are to be his wife. 

Carrie. Yes, if he wishes it! Poor boy, he has taken your im- 
prisonment hard. Not for a moment has he given up hope. Yet, 
to-day, he looked so sad I felt sorry for him. 'Twas when I told 






THE STRIKE. ----- S9 

him T had been to see Colonel Dorlson. 

Bel. You called on the Colonel"? I would have asked no favors 
from him! Could I have prevented it, you should not have goYte, 

Carrie. I did not see him — only — but — 1 saw — would you care to 
have me tell you? 

Bel. Yes, you may tell me all. But do not be too hard on her, 
sister. 1 have wronged her far more than she has wronged me. 
Forgive her for anything she may have said? 

Carrie. I have naught to forgive her for. I rather should ask her 
pardon for my unkind thoughts regarding her. She is a noble, 
honest girl. I wonder not that you love her. She would have sent 
you a message — then she would come and see you — but — 

Bel. No, no, she must not see me — not here. I have no wish to 
add to her unhappiness. Unfortunate girl to marry — I will not 
speak his name. 

Carrie. Robert, forgive her this step — 'tis forced upon her. 

Bel. Forgive her! yes. 'Twill make my sentence less hard to 
bear. What is the world without her. {putting his arm around 
Carrie) Forgive me, sister, I mean not all I say! Do not cry! 
You are all the world to me — yes — yes — everything. 

Carrie, {starting) L hear footsteps! {xbund heard loithout) Can it 
be the half hour has passed — the officers have come? 

Bel. lam ready! Be brave, sister! 'Twill help me to take my 
sentence calmly. (waits, 

Briter Ariel, c. e., and throws herself into Belknap's arms. 

Ariel. Robert, I would see you once more. I stole away unob- 
served. 

Bel. This is no place for you, Ariel. T would have forbidden it, 
could I have done so. The past had better be dead, buried and I 
forgotten. 

Ariel, No, no, it can not be, Robert. I live in the past, for what 
have I to look forward to? O! I have been deceived — they made me 
believe you guilty — I was forced to give my hand to another — a 
man I loath. O! 1 am miserable — wretched! Do not censure me too 
greatly? 

Bel. I do not, Ariel, but it gives me pain to hear you talk thus. 
Think not of me — forget me. 1 am not worthy of your considera- 
tion. I am a criminal, and when the doors shut me away from the 
world, let them also shut out all remembrance of the past? 

Ariel. No, Robert, for [ gave my heart to you. If not in this 
world, in the great hereafter we may meet and find our happiness. 

Bel. Be it so, then. in the sight of God, 1 ,viil stand acquitted. 
Farewell. 

Ariel, {starting slighttg) Some one comes! {noise without 

Carrie. It is the officers. {louder noise 

Bel. My time has come — we must part. 

Ariel, {clinging to Belknap) Robert. 

Voices, {loud talking heard, excited) I saw her come here! {second 
voice) We will soon see! Open the door, L say. 

Knter Colonel and Louis, c. e. 

Bonis. You see, I was not mistaken! 

Col. What does this mean, Ariel? You here? 

Ariel. I am here. - 



so Me strike, 

Col. s (to Relknap) This is some of your work, sir! 

(lifts his cane as if he would strike him 

Arid (standing before the Colonel) Strike me! I came here of 
my own accord! 

Col. You came here at the instigation of this man! Stand back, 
1 say! 

Ariel. I came here because the man I loved was here. 

Col. It is a disgrace. I can not own you as my daughter. Away 
from me, away! I can not own you. 

Bel. (stepping forward) Spare your daughter— spare yourself! I 
confess that all blame should fall upon me, but the wrong \ did was 
months ago when I first won her love. I did it openly and honestly. 
God knows that as far as was in my power I have tried to undo the 
wrong I have done her. Censure me, if you will. I am a prisoner 
— guilty or innocent, it does not matter. Treat me as a villain, 
charge me with any crime you wish, strike me to the floor, but spare 
your daughter — she is blameless. 

Louis, (angrily) Fine talk from a murderer. You scoundrel, the 
gallows is none. too good for you. I have a mind to knock you down. 

Bel. Strike if you dare! It would be the first time you did not 
strike me in the back! 

Carrie, (pleading) Robert, consider — mind him not? 

Bel. I do consider. He is a coward. 

Col. What do you mean, sir? You are insolent. 

Bel. 1 plead innocent of that charge. 

Louis. Innocent, indeed! A likely story, ha, ha! You plead in- 
nocent! 

Ariel. It is true. I believe him innocent. 

Louis. You — 

Col. Ariel, my child, this is hard for your old father. Will you 
not come with me? I can forgive you. 

Ariel, (clinging to her father) Father, this is the first time I have 
disobeyed you. 1 can not come — not now. 

Col. (turning as if to go) You break my heart — my child — all I 
have in the world. 

Ariel. Father. 

Louis, (to Ariel) Have you no regard for your promise — our 
relations. I shall insist, as I have a right to do, that you leave here. 
I shall stay no longer. 

Ariel. And I say to you, go! A promise obtained through false 
representations I hold to be no promise. 

Col. Ariel, my daughter, you do not mean this? 

Ariel. Yes, I mean it, every word. 

Guard, (calling) Time is up! All visitors must leave the prison. 

Ariel, (taking Belknap's hand) Robert, I must go. 

Bel. Think not of me, Ariel, your father waits. 

Col. My child— my child— turns from her old father. 

Louis, (to Ariel) Once more I ask, will you come? You will 
choose between me and this criminal. 

Ariel. 1 have already chosen. Once more I say to you, go! 

Enter Officer, c. e., who places his hand on Louis's shoulder, detain- 
ing him. 

Officer. Hold on, I have something to say about your going. Isn't 



THE STRIKE tt 

your name Louis Stevenson? 

Louis. Yes. What do you want? {attempts to pa** the Office u) 
Get out of my way! 

Col. He came with me. 

Officer. I have a warrant for his arrest. We'll arrange, I'm think- 
ing", to let him stay right along. 

Ariel, (aside) A warrant! 

Col. It can not be — there is certainly some mistake! 

Louis. For my arrest? I demand to be made acquainted with the 
charges. Where is the writ? 

Officer. Certainly. Here it is. 

(hands Louis a paper which he clutches nervously 

Louis. Ho, ho! (attempting to appear unconcerned). Theft. — did 
take certain property and money. Some mistake, of course. 

Col. Mistake! Undoubtedly' so! L will arrange for bail. My 
word ought to be as good as the bond, (to Louis) You need not be 
detained", (takes the writ) Who swears to the complaint? 

Enter Fred, c. e., followed by Bettie and Drakes. 

Bettie. (stepping forward) I do. 

Louis. What yon, Bettie NorMs? 

Bettie. Yes, Bettie Norris, in flesh and blood. 

Bel. (aside) What does this mean? 

Col. These are strange proceedings. 

Louis. The charges are false. The whole thing is an outrage. 

Fred, (stepping forward) It would be an outrage had we not the 
proof of your guilt. 

Louis, (angrily to Fred) This is some of your doings. I'll make 
you smart for it! 

(attempts to draw pistol, but is disarmed by Officer, handcuffed 

Bettie. An accidental shot! A lifeless body would point to suicide. 

Col. I have offered to furnish bail. 

Fred. Those charged with murder are not released on bail. 

Louis. 'You charge me with murder? 

Drakes, (proudly) Oi do, begorrah! Faith, an' wasn't Oi an eye 
witness of the shooting! 

Col. (aside) Charged with murder. 

Carrie, (to Belknap) O! Robert, you are innocent! 

Bel. Hush, sister! 

Col. (to Louis) What does this mean, sir? I ask for an explana- 
tion. 

Louis, (aside) It means that I have played my last card, and that 
I have lost the game, (to Colonel) Explanations are useless, lam 
sorry, Colonel, I shall be obliged to decline the honor of accepting 
your daughter's hand, (to Ariel) You are free to marry your 
prison bird. 

Col. Y T ou have imposed upon my confidence, deceived me! 

Louis. Keep cool, Colonel, you might die of heart failure before 
the wedding. 

Officer, (taking him by the arm) Come. 

Louis, (bowing) I bid you all good day. And you, Miss Dodson, 
a previous engagement will prevent me from being present at your 
Wedding. Au revoir. (exit Officer and Louis, c. e. 

Col. I am gradually comprehending. 1 realize that I am an old 



SJ frlti STRIKE 

man and sometimes blind, but God knows that I want to do what Is 
right, {to Belknap) Robert. I offer you my hand. 

Bel. {taking the Colonel'hs hand) I will ask that I be given my 
old position, and be allowed to pay back the money lost when my 
father was in your employ. 

Col. No! no! he was innocent. There is another I have to speak 
of. {to Ariel) Ariel, child, you have been a dutiful daughter, and 
you will make a good wife, {to Belknap) 1 give her into your 
keeping, take her. 

Ariel. Robert. 

Bel. Ariel, my own Ariel. 

Col. God bless you, my children, God bless you. 

Ih'akes. Faith., an' may ye niver forget yer friend, Drake 
O'Flannigaa. 

CURTAIN. 






I 



NO. M. F. 

53 Out in the Street - 

51 Rescued. 5 3 

59 Saved 

102 Turn of the Tide 

63 Thr. 3 3 

62 Ten Nights in a Bar-Room 7 3 

58 Wrecked 9 3 

COMEDIES. 

121 An Afflicted Family. 7 5 

Biter Bit, The. -... 

Bird Family. ....; 8 5 

Caught in the Act 7 3 

Captured 5 4 

5 3 

realousy 

Cigarette, The 4 2 

Farmer Larkhrs Boarders. 5 4 
Girl from the Midway. The.. 3 2 

Heroic Dutchman of '76. 8 3 

5 3 

In a Spider's Web 8 5 

Joshua Blodgett. 25c. 7 2 

Johanes Blatz's Mistake 4 3 

Love's Labor Not Lost 3 3 

London Assurance 9 3 

Miss Blothingay's Blunder. 3 3 

Miss Topsy Turvy 4 4 

Muldoon's Blunders., 25c... 5 3 

irs in N. Y 7 6 

Not So Bad After All. 6 5 

Our Boys 6 4 

Our Daughters 8 6 

Our Summer Boarder's 6 3 

Pug and the Baby 5 3 

Passions 9 4 

Prof. James' Experience 
Teaching Country School... 4 3 

Rags and Bottles. 4 1 

Scale With Sharps and 

Flats 3 2 

Servants vs. Master 6 2 

Slight Mistake 5 

Solon Shingle. 14 2 

Stub, 25c 8 3 

Two Bad Boys 7 3 

Three Hats, The* 4 3 

$2,000 Reward 2 

Valet's Mistake. 5 4 

Winning Hand, The 6 2 

Widow McGiutv, The 5 4 

TRAGEDIES. 

The Serf 6 3 



16 



FARCES&COMEDIETTAS 



Actor and Servant. . ... 2 

Aunt Charlotte's Maid 3 

All in a Muddle 3 

Andy Freckles. 4 

Actor's Scheme, The..... .. 4 

Awful Carpet Bag, That 3 

Betsey Baker 

Black vs. White 4 

dget Branigaus' Trou- 



&T_ 



bles. 



3 


356 


3 


354 


4 


349 


3 


285 


2 


296 



Box and Cox 

Badly Mixed 2 2 

Colonel's Mishap 5 

Cousin Josiah 1 1 

Cupids Capers 4 4 

Cleveland's Recept'n Party 5 3 

DayinaDoctorsOffi.ee. 5 1 

Deacon Jones' Wife's Ghost 4 

Double Election 9 1 

Dutchy vs. Nigger... 3 

Dutchman's Picnic, The 3 

Dutch Prize Fighter 3 

Dr. Baxter's Servants. 1 

Everybody Astonished 4 

Fooling with the Wrong 

Man 2 1 

Freezing a Mother-in-Law. 3 2 

Fun in a Post Office 4 2 

Family Jars 5 2 

Goose with the Golden 

Eggs. ...* 5 3 

Hallabahoola. the Medicine 

Man.. 4 3 

Hans Brummel's Cafe... 5 

Hash 4 2 

How He Popped the Ques- 
tion. 1 1 

How to Tame Your Mother- 
in-Law 4 2 

Hotel Healthy 4 3 

Haunted Hat, The 2 

Irish Squire of Squash 

Ridge 4 2 

In the Wronsr Clothes 5 3 

Jacob Shlaff's Mistake 3 2 

Jimmie Jones 3 2 

John Smith 5 3 

.lumboJum 4 3 

Judge by Proxy 5 2 

Kiss in the Dark 2 3 

Kitty and Patsy 1 1 

Katie's Deception 4 2 

Lauderbach's Little Sur- 
prise 2 1 

Locked in a Dress-maker's 

Room. % '- 

Lodgings for Two 3 

Love in all Corners. 5 3 

Landlord's Revenge, The... 3 

Matrimonial Bliss. 1 

Match for a Mother-in-Law 3 
More Blunders than One.... 4 

Mother's Fool 6 

My Precious Betsey 4 

My Turn Next 4 

My Wife's Relations. 4 

My Neighbor's Wife 3 

Matchmaking Father. 2 

Mike Donovan's Courtship. 1 

Mystic Charm, The 

Mv Mother-in-Law 2 

Mashers Mashed, The 5 

Nanka's Leap Year Ven- 
ture * 

Nobody's Moke ....„ » 5 

Nip and Tuck 3 

_____ TD 




9- 1 



Ernes' JPlays-Contiiiued.i 



Our Hotel.... 
Oliv- 4 



180 
171 
267 



381 Our Family UuVbi : 4Yla."; 4 2 

WU Obstinate Family. The " "i * 

57 Paddy Miles' Boy. 5 2 

Til S ateiltWashin ff Machine;.'.'. 4 T 

oo« £ erse cuted Dutchman 6 3 

VST ™ f esHional Gardener 4 2 

195 Poor Pilicody. g o 

392 PatMcFree. 7 3 

44| Pepping the Qu iS tic:i 4 

159 Quiet Family.. 4 4 

i«» RegularFix. 

PippUs " 

Rough Diamond '" fi 

Room 44 .> 

Rascal Pat'.That 

416 Ruben Rube. ".' o 

68 Sham Professor,' The 4 

295 Spellin' Skewl, The 7 

309 Santa Clans' Daughter;;;;;; 5 

138 SewmgCircle of Period 

115 S. H. A. M. Pinafore 5 

oS? Somebody's Nobody;.'.';.' 3 

iol Strictly Temperance 

232 Stage Struck Yankee.;;; 4 

£1 |f r " ck by Li Klitning "'• 2 

270 Slick and Skinner ft 

Q J flasher and Ciasher.;;; 5 

36o Stupid Cupid 4 

3o8 Snow Ball 

346 Signing an Actor 1 

413 Switched Off A 

326 Too Many Cousins 3 

339 Twc Gentlemen in a Fix ' ■?, 

}°l Taking the Census. 1 

16/ Turn Him Out 3 

Jg Thirty-three NextBirthd'ay 4 
292 Tim Flannigan 5 

?Jw ^ alS *, H Country' 'Editor.' 6 
™ I exan Mother-in-Law 4 

281 Two Aunt Emilys. n 

367 §10,000 Wager 4 \ 

312 Uncle Ethan..' | : 

269 Unjust Justice. « '• 

213 Vermont Wool Dealer 6 : 

-J> W" 1 T^phone;;;;.';;;; 3 ] 

332 Which is Which? 3 •■ 

151 Wanted a Husband " ) 

<0 Which will he Marry' '» f- 

135 Widower's Trials * 4 !j 

147 Waking Him Up. 

155 Why They Joined 'the'Re'-' 

beccas.. n j 

414 Who's Who? 3 I 

403 Winning a Wife 

1 Yankee Duelist. 



253 Best Cure, The " 

325 Coincidence....."." 
■•lored Senators^ 

214 Chops..., 

190 Crimps Trip.'.'.'.".'.".'.'. 
378 Gitthr Sperience 
tor's Office. 

153 Haunted House.".' " 

24 Handy And ( 
236 Hypochon. 

282 Intelligence Office, The.'.""" 3 
.Jl9 T - 
361 



1 a Doc 



In For It 



256 
128 



Jake and £ 

Misohievo 

Midnight Colic 

Musical Darkey...'.' 

Not as Deaf as He S« 
and Nobody's Sou 
244 Ohl Cloth. 

234 Old Dads Cabin 

246 Othello.. 5 

297 Pomp Green's Si 

134 Pomp's Pranks 

258 Prof Bones' Latest" Inv'en- 
tion v ~ t 5 

177 Quaiu-elsome's'erv'a , nts;;.'.V"' 3 

10* School 

133 Seeing Bcwting".*"];"";; 

179 Sham Doctor.. 

243 Sports on a Lark. 

92 Stage Struck Darke v. 

-38 Strawberry Shortcake 

122 Select School, The 

108 Those Awful Boys 

245 Ticket Tak. 

216 Vice Versa 4 

206 Villkens andbiiian... . 

210 Virginia Mummy " g 

205 William Tell 

156 Wig-Maker and "Hi's" "s'er" 

vants <j 



130 



GUIDE BOOKS. 

Hints on Elocul u 
Hints to Amateurs..... 



. 2 1 
1 



157 Yankee Peddler";.""" 7 3 

377 Yacob's Hotel Experience. 3 

ETHIOPIAN FARCES. 

204 Academy of Stars « 

172 Black Shoemaker.;'. 4 g 

98 Black Statue. 4 % , 

*H ThflT . ; : 4 " m My Day and Now-a-Da 

g-fr The Little Gem Make-Up Box. Price 50 Cents. 



MISCELLANEOUS. 

On to Victory. Cantata. 25c. 5 S 
Festival of Days... 
260 Cousin John's Album,' Pa 

tomimes 

Happy Fran ks So 1 
399 Ames' Select Recital i, 

No. 1. 

397 Mother Earth' and her \ 
atable Daughters 
Ames' Series of Med 
•Recitations and Tab 1 
No. 1. 
382 Ames' Series' of" Me'd I. 
Recitations and Pan ■ 

mimes No. 2. 

376 Joan of Arc Dri 

371 Victim of Woman's RU-h' 

Family Discipline. '--'-JffVfJ 



250 



360 



184 



j€ 



9iSb»i 



>#•%- 



v.>* 






